The concept of the distinction between the "children of God" and the "children of the devil" is a significant theme in Christian theology, particularly in the New Testament. This distinction is primarily drawn from the writings of the Apostle John, who emphasizes the moral and spiritual differences between those who belong to God and those who align with the devil.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for this distinction is found in 1 John 3:10 : "By this the children of God and the children of the devil are distinguished: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother." This verse clearly delineates the criteria for identifying the children of God versus the children of the devil: the practice of righteousness and love for others.

Characteristics of the Children of God

1. Righteousness: The children of God are characterized by their pursuit of righteousness. In 1 John 2:29 , it is stated, "If you know that He is righteous, you also know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him." This righteousness is not self-derived but is a result of being born of God and living in accordance with His will.

2. Love: A defining trait of the children of God is their love for one another. 1 John 4:7 exhorts believers, "Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." This love is a reflection of God's own nature and is a testament to their relationship with Him.

3. Obedience to God: The children of God demonstrate their identity through obedience to God's commandments. 1 John 5:2-3 states, "By this we know that we love the children of God: when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome."

Characteristics of the Children of the Devil

1. Sinfulness: The children of the devil are marked by a life of sin. 1 John 3:8 declares, "The one who practices sin is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the very start. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil." This ongoing practice of sin indicates an alignment with the devil's rebellious nature.

2. Hatred: Unlike the children of God, the children of the devil are often characterized by hatred and a lack of love. 1 John 3:15 warns, "Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that eternal life does not reside in a murderer." This absence of love is a clear indicator of their spiritual state.

3. Rejection of Christ: The children of the devil are also identified by their rejection of Jesus Christ and His teachings. In John 8:44 , Jesus confronts those who oppose Him, saying, "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him."

Spiritual Implications

The distinction between the children of God and the children of the devil carries profound spiritual implications. It underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the necessity for believers to remain vigilant in their faith. Ephesians 6:12 reminds Christians, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Transformation through Christ

The New Testament teaches that transformation from being a child of the devil to a child of God is possible through faith in Jesus Christ. John 1:12-13 offers this promise: "But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God—children born not of blood, nor of the desire or will of man, but born of God." This transformation is a work of divine grace, resulting in a new identity and a new way of life.